Dolce & Gabbana may be known for its signature Italian flair but its latest offering, the Abaya Collection celebrates Middle Eastern traditions. The abaya -- a traditional Middle Eastern cloak -- is made opulent with Dolce & Gabbana's classic Italian craftsmanship and embroidered detailing,
Showcased in a culturally themed lookbook, the brand's Abaya Collection consists of patterned, lace-trimmed and embroidered pieces that marry tradition with an element of luxury. While Dolce & Gabbana is not the first luxury label to create a collection specific to the Middle Eastern market -- Oscar de la Renta's recent caftan range was launched in celebration of Ramadan -- its offering is reflective of the luxury fashion industry's cultural clothing shift.
With less labels opting for mass production and uniformity, more are returning to a bespoke business models while targeting niche markets around the globe.
Middle Eastern Couture Collections
The Dolce & Gabbana Abaya Collection Targets Arabic Consumers
Trend Themes
1. Middle Eastern Luxury Market - Luxury fashion labels are embracing Middle Eastern traditions and creating collections specific to this niche market.
2. Cultural Clothing Shift - The luxury fashion industry is moving away from mass production and uniformity, and returning to bespoke business models that cater to specific cultural clothing preferences.
3. Cross-cultural Collaborations - Fashion brands are collaborating with designers and artisans from different countries and cultures, resulting in innovative fusion pieces.
Industry Implications
1. Luxury Fashion - The luxury fashion industry has opportunities to reach niche markets by creating collections that celebrate cultural traditions and partnering with designers from different cultures.
2. Custom Tailoring - Custom tailoring services have a chance to flourish by catering to niche markets that value traditions and cultural clothing preferences.
3. Artisan Craftsmanship - Artisans from different cultures have opportunities to collaborate with fashion brands and create innovative fusion pieces that celebrate the intersection of traditions and modernity.